Looking for the perfect location to celebrate the Fourth of July with family and friends? Pack up your lawn chairs and blankets, and get ready to mark the anniversary of our nation’s Declaration of Independence with all the festivities in Dahlonega, the site of the first major U.S. gold rush. Only an hour’s drive north of Atlanta, for a full day of exciting family-fun activities and events for everyone, come on up.
Firecracker 5K and Fun Run
5K starts at 8 a.m.
Fun Run starts at 9 a.m.
Start the festivities early with the 7th Annual Firecracker 5K and Fun Run. Take a scenic tour of historic downtown Dahlonega through winding roads and up gently sloping hills. The run starts in the downtown square in front of the Dahlonega Gold Museum located inside the oldest courthouse in Georgia.
Race pass scenic Hancock Park, through shady, tree-lined neighborhood streets, and by many historic buildings. Cross the finish line just in time to enjoy the rest of our city’s Independence Day celebration.
Patriotic Ceremony
Starts at 9:30 a.m.
The patriotic city of Dahlonega is proud of our deep military heritage. Join us and show your support for America’s freedom with this annual ritual. The gala kicks off at 9:30 a.m. with the singing of the national anthem, the presentation of Colors by Dahlonega’s Junior ROTC, and a quick address from the keynote speaker.
Dahlonega Car Show
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Don’t miss the Dahlonega Car Club Car Show. Travel back in time with over 150 fully restored classics, and experience the beauty and vintage styling of some of the finest cars in north Georgia. The cars are on display in the parking lot at Lumpkin’s County Library.
A $20 entrance fee for all cars showcased at the event benefits the county’s DARE Program and local fire department. Proceeds purchase toys to help comfort young fire victims.
Fourth of July Parade
Begins at 11 a.m.
The Dahlonega’s Fourth of July parade is always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t miss the patriotic-themed floats and entertainers as they cruise through town. The procession starts at Memorial Drive and circles through the city’s historic square. After the spectacle, grab a bite to eat at one of Dahlonega’s 18 restaurants and consider a nap in your hotel room before the big show.
Dahlonega offers guests an excellent selection of charming lodging choices, such as a bed and breakfast like the Mountain Top Lodge or a family-friendly hotel like The Quality Inn. Whether you stay for a night or a week, discover restful accommodations and real southern hospitality that suits every fancy and budget.
Grand Fireworks Display
Starts at Dark
Wrap up the day’s festivities with Dahlonega’s Fourth of July family fireworks celebration on the drill field at the University of North Georgia. Known for having one of the best fireworks displays in the state, bring your lawn chairs and blankets and spread out to watch the grand finale.
This year’s family-fun Independence Day celebration is bigger and better than ever before. Head up to Dahlonega and spend the day with us.
Photo by ThoroughlyReviewed via Flickr licensed under CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original
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